What is Anise?
Learn more about anise
Learn more about anise What is Anise?
Anise, which we know more about its use in the production of alcohol, has actually been processed in the production of medicinal drugs for centuries. According to some sources, the anise plant it was used in Egypt in the 1500s. The anise plant, whose botanical name is Pimpinella anisum, is used for therapeutic purposes with its seeds, oil, roots and leaves. The anise plant, which is especially preferred for digestive system problems, has a pungent smell and taste. This smell and taste are similar to licorice root. For this reason, it is also known as a breath refresher. While it is widely used to sweeten foods, beverages, confectionery, it is also preferred as a fragrance in the cream, soap, perfume industry. Anise is a plant that needs to be discovered more with its benefits.
What are the Benefits of Anise?
The topic of the benefits of anise is still a research topic for scientists. Because “what is anise good for?" considering that, it is known that it has many benefits, from digestive problems to coughs and colds. Research is underway to prove more benefits.
It Can Lower the Risk of Iron Deficiency
Anise seed attracts attention with its high iron content. Iron is important for hemoglobin. If there is not enough hemoglobin in the blood, oxygen cannot be transported to the tissues. This condition can also result in the appearance of iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia gives symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, digestive problems, and low body temperature. Anise seeds help lower the risk of iron deficiency anemia while nourishing your blood.
Valuable For Your Stomach and Digestive System
For digestive system problems, anise has a relaxing property. Anise is used for complaints such as bloating, abdominal pain, gas pains, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and gastritis. In ancient Greece, aniseed desserts were served at the end of big feasts. In Middle Eastern medicine, this plant is still used as a digestive reliever. By itself, the anethole in anise is said to be effective for functional dyspepsia, which causes bloating, oversaturation, heartburn and nausea after eating. It is known that anise has been used against ulcers in India and the Arab world for centuries. It is claimed to protect the stomach lining while reducing stomach acid. However, research on this issue is ongoing.
It Can Provide Relief in Menopause
It is stated that anise can help in the menopause process, which can be a challenging period for women. Studies say that anise reduces the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes. But research continues.
Help in Regulating the Menstrual Cycle
Anise can be effective for the menstrual cycle due to its estrogenic properties. Anise tea can be consumed for menstrual bleeding that is delayed due to reasons such as stress. With an antispasmodic effect, it can help in reducing menstrual cramps.
It Can Make It Easier for You to Fall Asleep
It is known that anise has benefits for sleep disorders. You can consume anise tea before going to bed. The essential oil of this plant, which can make it easier for you to fall asleep, should not be boiled, as it evaporates. If you are uncomfortable with the bitter taste, you can add honey to the tea after brewing and drink it.
Can Protect From Infections
Anise can also be used for microbial infections and diseases. It is believed that the anise plant inhibits the development of fungi and viruses.
May Be a Supporter of Breastfeeding
It is said that anise increases breast milk. Anise contains estrogenic effects that improve lactation. These effects are also felt in reducing complaints of premenstrual syndrome and increasing libido. Despite this auxiliary role in breastfeeding, nursing mothers should definitely consult a doctor before consuming anise. Because there is a difference of opinion about this benefit of anise. In addition, it is not recommended for pregnant women to consume anise.
It Can Relax the Respiratory Tract
Anise has the property of relaxing the respiratory tract. Being an expectorant, anise is used in lozenges and cough products. Anise oil also helps to loosen phlegm from the lungs and throat. The benefits of anise can be seen in the treatment of colds, asthma, flu, pneumonia, bronchitis and sinusitis.
Anise Is Also Useful For The Skin
Anise oil has positive effects on skin health. It is known that anise has been used topically in the past to deal with the oil balance of the skin and simple types of acne. The benefits of anise for the skin are not limited to this. Anise, which can be poisonous to insects, is a supporter in dealing with infections such as lice and scabies. It is not recommended to apply anise oil directly to the skin. It is recommended to dilute it necessarily with a lotion.
Bad Breath Remover
The fact that it is anti-microbial and anti-bacterial also makes anise a powerful plant for oral health. It is considered an important component of oral care waters. It is a good helper in dealing with its bad smell.
Natural Pain Relief
Anise oil is described as a ’natural pain reliever'. It can support the alleviation of these pains by increasing blood circulation in people who experience rheumatism, arthritis and joint pains.
It Can Lower Blood Pressure
It reduces the pressure on the heart by keeping blood pressure under control. Because it increases blood flow, it prepares the ground for the heart to be healthy. Those who have low blood pressure problems should be careful not to consume.
Antioxidant Power
Anise contains antioxidant components. Antioxidants play an important role in the fight against oxidative stress, which predisposes to hardening of the arteries and heart diseases. It has been stated by research that anise oil prevents bad cholesterol (LDL).
You can find this plant in spice shops, which contains calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamins A and C. You can drink the anise plant as a tea and add it to your products such as bread. However, before consuming it, make sure whether you are allergic to anise or not. If you are allergic to plants such as cumin, celery, coriander, dill, fennel, asparagus, you may also have an allergic reaction to anise. In addition, anise can be inconvenient to consume, as it can also interact with birth control pills and estrogen medications.